Being a groomsman at an Indian wedding could be fun but may also involve a bit of leg work. While one’s itching to look dapper, one doesn't want to outshine the groom. It’s not all fun and games as one’s got to match the steps on the sangeet floor and also ensure the outfit doesn't look too sweaty. And of course, one has to keep a close watch on the groom’s shoes and make sure they don’t get pilfered during joota chupai. While it's fun for the groom's entourage to colour coordinate, wearing identical looking outfits may look like an odd boy band from the nineties.
With winter weddings still a month away, you still have a plenty of time to plan shaadi looks. In fact, Bollywood's sharp dressers offer us ample inspiration this season. Ranbir Kapoor's shine-on jackets during his Ramayana (2026) promotional tour make for a great reference point. Also worth mentioning is SVA by Sonam and Paras Modi which offers a vibrant colour-rich take on ceremonial dressing.
Moreover, Sameer Madan's metallic accented kurtas could be another spiffy bet. An array of bandhgalas from the Nicobar x Rajesh Pratap Singh collaboration for NicoBaraat are worth considering too. They’re sculpted, but don’t feel stiff, so you can get through the pheras, the baraat and the dance floor without wanting to take them off.
Rajiv Purohit, Creative Director at Nicobar observes that a groomsman’s job is to look good in a way that holds up for 14 hours. One's greeting guests, running errands for the groom, and dancing. "So, I’d say dress for movement first and the photograph second. The good news is that when the fabric is right, both take care of themselves," he says.
For daytime pre-wedding functions, he suggests going for cottons, linens and cotton-silk blends in lighter, playful colours. "A relaxed kurta or a printed shirt with easy trousers works well, and so does an open Nehru jacket. These events get messy and hot, so choose pieces you won’t worry about," he notes. For the wedding itself, he suggests stepping up the texture rather than the weight. "Chanderi, silk-cotton, light brocades and subtle mukaish or gota detailing give you richness without stiffness. A well-cut bandhgala in a lightweight weave will look ceremonial and still let you breathe through the pheras and the baraat," he adds.
For post-wedding bashes and the cocktail night, this is where a groomsman can have some fun. "Try a sharp jacket in a jewel tone or metallic, worn over a simple shirt or kurta," advises Rajiv. The key rule is to invest in natural textiles and pieces with thin lining. A sharp jacket with a breathable cotton or silk lining will serve you through many weddings as opposed to heavy synthetic one will just make you count the minutes until you can take it off. Rajiv suggests investing in a versatile bandhgala or a Nehru jacket. "It is the hardest-working piece you’ll own. Wear it buttoned over a kurta for the wedding, over a bib-front shirt for the cocktail, or open for the sangeet. One sharp bandhgala can do the work of three outfits. Moreover, you need two or three well-fitted kurtas. Have one crisp and plain, one with texture or subtle embroidery, and another in a fun print or colour for the day functions," he recommends. A statement jacket works wonders for the party nights. Choose something with colour, sheen or detail that does the talking so the rest can stay simple. "Easy trousers and churidars with a relaxed or tapered fit and comfortable waistbands are ideal for dance floors. A bib-front or band-collar shirt is great for when the jacket inevitably comes off at 1am. In terms of jewellery, one or two considered pieces are enough. Finish off with either a brooch or a jacket chain on a bandhgala and add a signet ring. As for other accessories, a pocket square or a printed safa ties a groomsman squad together nicely without everyone dressing identically. Also, carry a stole or shawl for winter evenings. It looks great draped and it’s practical," he adds.
Designer Sameer Madan suggests keeping things easy for daytime functions with lightweight fabrics, relaxed tailoring and unexpected colour combinations. "Bring in sharper silhouettes and statement details for the evening. I like the idea of taking something familiar and giving it an off-kilter twist, whether through the cut of a jacket, an unusual texture or an interesting detail. The most important thing is that your clothes allow you to move freely and enjoy the celebrations," he quips. He also roots for well-tailored trousers, a versatile shirt and a statement jacket that can be styled in different ways. "You don't need an entirely new wardrobe for every function. A simple outfit can look different with a change in layering, footwear or accessories. I would also encourage groomsmen to look beyond conventional wedding wear. I personally like exploring familiar Indian silhouettes and reinterpreting them through unexpected materials and details, including faux leather. Even a small element of contrast can make an outfit stand out without making it feel overdone," he adds. In terms of accessories, Sameer suggests a statement ring, a bracelet or a watch that can add character without taking away from the clothes. "If your outfit has an interesting texture or a strong design detail, let that do the talking and keep the rest relatively understated. As far as the footwear goes, choose something that complements the outfit but is comfortable enough to last through the celebrations. You should be able to dance, move around and enjoy the wedding without thinking about what you're wearing every few minutes," he suggests.
All in all, nailing occasion wear is always about finding that balance between making a statement and feeling comfortable in one's own skin.
SVA by Sonam & Paras Modi
This striped colour blocked kurta can be worn across wedding ceremonies and even on other occasions.
Nicobar
Cut in cotton silk, this olive kurta features a ditsy chintz foil print, and a red-thread neckband detail is an ideal festive pick.
Sameer Madan
This statement kurta with a metallic yolk is ideal for bringing in drama to the dance floor.
Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna
This evening jacket seen on Ahaan Panday can be styled in multiple ways. Accent it with a brooch and leave the buttons open to allow some breathability.
Kunal Rawal
Ranbir Kapoor's embellished jacket is a no brainer. Style it with a classic watch and suede loafers.
Gaurav Gupta
Vijay Deverakonda's double breasted jacket with a metallic accent would make for a dapper groomsman no doubt!
S&N by Shantnu Nikhil
Abhay Verma’s tailored waistcoat layered over a black kurta finished with signature crest motifs lends itself to endless mix and match.